Re: [DML] DMC Bluebook

[James Espey <james@xxxx>]

> > Does any one happen to know what the current "Bluebook" is
> > on a medium condition DMC ?
>
> According to NADA at <http://www.nadaguides.com/> the values are:
>
> Low retail: $9050 Average retail: $14250 High retail: $23175

(SNIP)

> Now that you have these values you must be wondering what or who
> determines any given car to be "low", "average", or "high". There
> are professional appraisers that do just that for a fee. So now

(SNIP)

The NADA book generalizes the definitions as:

Low: This vehicle would be in mechanically functional condition. The
exterior paint and trim would be in fair condition. The interior
would show normal wear possibly needing minor reconditioning. Note:
This does NOT represent "parts cars".

Average: This vehicle would be in good condition overall. It could be
an older restoration or a well-maintained original vehicle. The
exterior paint, trim and mechanics are in satisfactory condition. The
interior would show minimal wear.

High: This vehicle would be in excellent condition overall. It could
be a completely restored or an extremely well-maintained original
vehicle. The exterior paint, trim and mechanics are not in need of
work. Note: This does not represent a "100 point" or "#1" vehicle.

De Lorean Motor Company is a member of the NADA Appraisal Guides 
Advisory Board, and we report on DeLorean values and market trends. 
Below is a recap of how we rate DeLoreans when reporting to NADA:

Low: The vehicle runs and drives normally, but with no recent service
history. There is no fuel tank contamination or "hot start" problems.
The brakes may pull or vibrate. The exterior stainless may have dents
or dings, and the paint on the fascias may be worn, chipped or
cracked. The fascias may be warped as well. The louvres may be
cracked, and the exterior lights and lens are all in good condition.
The interior shows normal wear, possibly with stains in the carpets
and the dash and binnacle may be discolored or cracked. Headliners
may be saggy or recovered with the incorrect material. The seats may
show wear or be recovered in an incorrect material, and possibly torn
or split at the seams. All operational systems (wipers, lights, air
conditioning, windows, door locks, speedometer) are functioning.

Average: A daily driver type car with an "as necessary" service
history, fascias are not warped, louvres are not broken. The exterior
stainless steel has no dents or dings, but may have some light
"cross-scratches" that require more than can be accomplished with by
hand with a buffing pad. Runs and drives well, with a good interior
that is free of tears, rips and shows no unusual signs of wear on the
carpets, seats or headliners. The "average" condition DeLorean is the
most treacherous area, as many of the cars advertised in that price
range and NOT "average", but closer to "low", This is particularly
true of the supposed "low mileage" DeLoreans that have been stored
for years and are fraught with storage related maladies. "Caveat
Emptor" applies here more than with either "high" or "low" condition
cars.

High: A "high" condition DeLorean is one that has a recent, complete
service history. Stainless, glass, fascias, louvres and exterior
moldings and trim are flawless. The interior shows no signs of wear
and is in excellent condition with the correct materials for seat,
door panel, console and headliners. Operational systems are fully
functional, with the necessary upgrades (metal header bottle, relay
kit, braided steel clutch line, recalls, etc) performed. Potentially
a "concours" competitor if in original condition.

Feel free to email me directly with your comments/questions.

James Espey
DeLorean Motor Company
Houston, Texas

281/568-9573
800/USA-DMC1
http://www.delorean.com